Volunteers are the heartbeat of our services, programs and support operations. Over 130 volunteers participate and help carry out the mission of Outreach each year. As a volunteer you will have an opportunity to positively impact Polk County families, individuals and children. All volunteers will receive proper training to ensure they are prepared and ready for their jobs.

Volunteer opportunities:

Receptionist ​Our receptionist greets clients in a respectful, friendly, timely manner and ensures that client confidentiality is maintained at all times.

Feed-a-Kid Delivery ​These volunteers deliver packed Feed-a-Kid bags to Polk County Schools which are then distributed to school children on Friday afternoons. There is some physical labor involved when loading and unloading the Feed-a-Kid bags. ​

Food Pantry ​Assist clients and help them shop for food in the pantry. Pantry volunteers also stock shelves accept food and other donations, perform routine cleaning tasks, and help organize and maintain the food pantry

Administrative and Fundraising Support Volunteers assist with the day to day duties of our administrative staff and help with special projects. Significant computer work is often required, but training is provided.

IntakeIntake volunteers interview (potential) clients seeking assistance. You will have significant contact with the public, clients and staff. Duties may also include general office support. Intake volunteers must be able to commit to volunteering on a regular weekly or biweekly basis. There are two intake shifts each day: 8:45am-12:30pm and 12:30pm-4:30pm.

Feed-a-Kid Packers​Feed-a-Kid packers pack bags of food, which are delivered to Polk County Schools each Friday during the academic year. Volunteers work together to assemble bags for school children who are enrolled in the program, following a pre-established menu.

Wood Yard Outreach distributes wood to help clients heat their homes during the cold winter months. We need individuals in groups to help split and stack firewood. This position requires moderately intense physical activity.

Special Events These volunteers support special events and programs and help organize fundraising activities working before, during, and after the event. This is a great way to become involved with Outreach if your schedule can not accommodate a regularly scheduled volunteer shift.

Volunteers packing Feed-a-Kid bags

Volunteers working in computer room

Reception Volunteers

Scenes From 2017 Volunteer Appreciation LuncheonOutreach celebrated our volunteers with a Cinco de Mayo party on May 5th with delicious Mexican food, festive decorations, a photo booth and fun games. Congratulations to Winnie Volpe for being named to the Second Wind Hall of Fame and to the following dedicated volunteers who served the most time at Outreach during 2016:Administration: Carol BrowningClient Intake: Cherie WrightData: Grey AxtellFood Pantry / Facility: Jim Wright